Machinist - Level 4

SpaceX; McGregor (TX); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

SpaceX is seeking a skilled Machinist – Level 4 to produce precision parts for tooling assemblies and ground support equipment. You will study blueprints, set up manual mills and lathes, and inspect components to tight tolerances.

The role requires standing, lifting up to 25 lbs, and availability for overtime in a fast-paced, aerospace environment. Ideal candidates have 5+ years with manual milling/turning and experience with nickel-based alloys, plus the ability to work independently and in

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalency required.
• 5+ years of experience setting up and operating manual mills and lathes.
• Experience with nickel-based alloys and precision machining is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Study blueprints and drawings to determine operation sequences and tolerances.
• Set up machines and operate manual mills and lathes to specs.
• Inspect parts using micrometers and surface plates to ensure quality.
• Prepare precision fixtures and tools per drawings.
• Maintain equipment and support lean manufacturing practices.

Skills

Blueprint reading

Manual machining

Quality inspection

Teamwork

Lean Six Sigma knowledge

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

CNC machine operation

Drill presses

Grinders

CMM inspection equipment

Job description

SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Today SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars.

MACHINIST – LEVEL 4

We are seeking skilled professionals to produce precision parts and components for tooling assemblies and ground support equipment, ensuring every piece meets exact design specifications through the setup and operation of machines. You will also maintain the critical equipment and supplies that support every phase of launching the world's most advanced rockets. If you thrive on hands‑on work in a fast‑paced environment, this role is for you.

Responsibilities

• Study sample parts, blueprints, drawings, and engineering information in order to determine methods and sequences of operations needed to fabricate products, and determine product dimensions and tolerances, machine parts to specifications using machine tools such as lathes and milling machines
• Support metalworking projects from planning and fabrication through assembly, inspection, and testing, using knowledge of machine functions, metal properties, and mathematics
• Machine precision fixtures, tools, and products from drawings, in accordance with established procedures, with limited supervision
• Set up machines to precise tolerances and operate various types of machinery following established procedures
• Measure and inspect parts to detect defects and ensure conformance to specifications, using precision instruments such as micrometers, surface plates, and other inspection equipment
• Set up and operate metalworking and cutting equipment, such as manual mills, lathes, saws, etc.
• Clean and maintain machines, tools, and equipment
• Demonstrate continuous effort to improve operations, decrease turnaround times, streamline work processes, and work cooperatively and jointly
• Perform other related duties, as assigned, for the purpose of ensuring an efficient and effective work environment

Basic Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalency certificate
• 5+ years of experience setting up and operating manual mills and lathes

Preferred Skills & Experience

• 1+ years of experience operating a computer numerical control (CNC) machine
• Experience with the operation of drill presses, grinders, and other related equipment
• Ability to work independently and in a team setting
• Aptitude in spatial reasoning, attention to detail, and skilled craftsmanship
• Experience with open setup inspection, including the use of manual inspection tools as well as coordinate measuring machines (CMMs) or other automated inspection equipment
• Experience and understanding of the processes needed for a production environment, such as Lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, etc.
• Proficiency in single-point threading techniques on manual lathes to create precise threads on a range of materials, following engineering drawings and specifications
• Ability to accurately center and indicate workpieces on a manual lathe with a four-jaw chuck
• Experience with nickel-based alloys

Additional Requirements

• Anticipated hours for this position are 6:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
• Must be available for overtime and weekends as the schedule varies depending on site operational needs; flexibility is required
• Ability to perform job duties that require standing, kneeling, crouching, and twisting the upper body
• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs unassisted
• Work performed in an environment requiring exposure to fumes, odors, and noise

Itar Requirements

• To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C.1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C.1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here.

SpaceX is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with SpaceX is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status. Applicants wishing to view a copy of SpaceX’s Aff… or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out to [e-mail].